Man takes on ultra-marathons for bereaved children

A man is set to run seven ultra-marathons in seven days to support children who have lost their parents.

Matt Rice-Tucker, from Edenbridge in Kent, said the challenge, which begins on Monday, was inspired by his wife, Nellie, who lost her mother when she was just 10-years-old.

He explained that each run represented Nellie and her six siblings, and would honour the memory of their mother, Jane Peckham-Cooper.

"Our aim is to turn this story into something positive by raising awareness and funds for Child Bereavement UK," he said.

His challenge, Seven More Miles, will take him across various locations including Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells, Northumberland and Portsmouth.

He said each day, he will be running 33.2 miles (53.4km) - seven miles more than the standard marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42.2km).

The 35-year-old architect said his final run would coincide with the London Marathon, where he will be joined by Nellie.

Matt said: "We have three young children, so the mission of this charity resonates with us.

"I have seen first-hand when kids lose their parents and the devastating impact it has on them.

"Some are too young to understand what's happening, and Child Bereavement UK plays a vital role in helping children rebuild their lives."

Nellie, 34, said the fundraising would have meant a lot to her mother.

"My mother was a huge family person, she absolutely loved kids," she said.

"So, supporting a charity that helps children through some of life's hardest moments would mean a lot to her."

In 2018, Matt ran seven marathons in seven consecutive days across seven UK locations, raising more than £15,000 for the charity.

He said: "I feel running is a good way for people to bond - people sometimes feel more comfortable talking about difficult subjects when they are doing an activity together."

Nellie added: "Marathons are a great way to raise awareness.

"You also meet other runners and learn about their inspirations, which in turn motivates us to carry on with our goals."

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